From Rise of Protestantism in France to Publication of the Institutes - James Aitken Wylie

and the happier days he was now likely to see in
the Vatican.
Nevertheless, the horizon did not clear up: the
storm still lowered above Rome. The last year of
Clement's life – for he was now drawing toward
the grave – was the unhappiest he had yet seen. Not
one of all his fond anticipations was there that did
not misgive him. If the dreams of ordinary mortals
are to be read backwards, much more – as Clement
and even Pontiffs in our own time have
experienced – are the dreams of Popes.
The emperor became more pressing for a
Council than ever. The Protestants of Germany,
having formed a powerful league, had now a voice
at the political council-table of Christendom. Nay,
with his own hands Clement had been rearing a
rampart round them, inasmuch as his alliance with
Francis made Charles draw towards the Protestants,
whose friendship was now more necessary to him.
Even the French king, now his ally, could not be
depended upon. Catherine's "three rings" the Pope
had not made forthcoming, and Francis threatened,
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